A HEADTEACHER has paid tribute to two teenagers who were killed in a horror car crash in a New Forest village.

Lily Butterfield-Godwin and Abbey Rogers, both 19, former pupils at Hounsdown in Totton, died when the car they were passengers in crashed into a wall after going out of control.

They had been picked up from the Stag Hotel moments before they died and the car's driver, a 21-year-old man, is still in hospital along with a 19-year-old woman passenger.

Julie Turvey, headteacher at Hounsdown School, said: “Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of Lily Godwin and Abbey Rogers.

“We were saddened to hear of the tragic news of these two young people, who were former students of Hounsdown School.

“Both girls were popular and well-respected by staff and students alike. Our thoughts are also with the two other young people involved in the accident on Friday night, one of whom is also a former student.”

Mrs Turvey added that the school is offering a helping hand to those affected by the sad incident.

She said: “The entire school community is thinking of the families at this very difficult time, and we will offer all the support we can to those siblings and friends at the school.”

A police investigation is underway into the cause of the crash, which happened at one minute past midnight on Saturday morning.

The road was closed and police are appealing for witnesses but no arrests have been made.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101 and quote Operation Marn.